Following a public hearing January 25, the City of Salmon Arm approved Askew's Uptown Development Ltd.'s application to re-zone property east of the Holiday Inn Express. With this application now passed, Askew's can start the development permit process for its second shopping centre in Salmon Arm.
This approval also allows SASCU to move forward in planning for a potential second branch on the site. As planning progresses, watch this page for details.
First and second reading on an application from Askew's Uptown Development Ltd. was approved by Salmon Arm City Council January 11. The application requested the rezoning of a 3-hectare piece of property between the Holiday Inn Express and the Super 8 Motel to allow for the development of a second Askew's shopping centre. This proposed new development provides an option for a second branch in Salmon Arm for SASCU.
A public hearing about the proposal is set for Monday, January 25, 7:00 pm at City Hall. For more details, click here. If you have specific comments or questions, please email us at newbranchinsalmonarm@sascu.com.
Salmon Savings and Credit Union has experienced phenomenal growth over the past 7 years, doubling in size since 2003. The recent upgrade to the Main Branch in Salmon Arm has allowed us to better use our space, but we knew this renovation would only allow for growth in the short term. We need another branch in Salmon Arm and we have a location in mind that will serve our members well.
Back in 1990, the Credit Union anticipated this growth and purchased additional property. In 2008, the City of Salmon Arm revoked financial institution use for this property.
In purchasing this property, the Credit Union considered the way Salmon Arm was growing and the increase in population east of town. Having a second branch in this area makes sense to meet the needs of a growing community.
We also see the importance of building a branch where other services are offered. Askews Foods recently purchased property just up the hill from the Holiday Inn. Askews has plans to build a second store in this location and we appreciate the value in partnering with this local company which like the Credit Union has been a long time supporter of the community.
In our annual Member Surveys, members have indicated that location and convenience are key factors when dealing with a financial institution. This means, providing a service close to where people live, work and shop, where ample parking is provided and you have easy access by foot, bus, bike or car. This new location beside Askews is ideal for SASCU.
As the Credit Union continues to grow, we need to remain committed to quality of service and access. A second branch would allow us to ensure members aren’t standing in long lines waiting to see a teller and that appointments to open an account or set up a mortgage happen in a reasonable amount of time.
Our purpose in providing you with this information now is to keep you abreast of important upcoming changes. We also require the support of City Council to amend the zoning by-laws and allow for the use of a financial institution outside the C-2 Town Centre Zoning. SASCU will be approaching City Council this fall and we look forward to your comments as we prepare for this application.
Salmon Arm Savings and Credit Union remains invested and rooted in the down town and we are staying true to these roots by also looking ahead to support the future needs of our members and community.
If you have questions or wish to provide your input and support, we would be pleased to include your comments in our rezoning application to City Hall. You can email us at newbranchinsalmonarm@sascu.com.
By providing us with your email address, we will also keep you updated on progress and developments in our application including important public hearing dates. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Michael Wagner
Chief Executive Officer